Holiday Reading Season
Fun holiday reads, recent book reviews and discussion questions, author Q&A and more
Hope you’re having a lovely and festive December! I can’t believe how fast this year has flown by. But there’s still plenty of time to read holiday-themed books!
I put together a list of 10 new holiday reads to check out this year. This list features all kinds of stories centered around the holidays.
And I know it’s a hectic time of year so remember that reading is something that you do for you. Even in this busy time period, make a plan to read a chapter or two or even 10. Read when you can. You deserve a break too! Check out the full list here.
Recent Book Reviews
These are the past five novels I’ve read listed in the order I read them. Very much a variety of genres and subject matters! Let’s take a closer look.
The Love Elixir of Augusta Stern by Lynda Cohen Loigman is such a charming, feel good story. The story combines two dynamic storylines: one in 1920s Brooklyn, and the other in 1980s southern Florida. The story serves as a reminder that it’s never too late for a fresh start. Full review here. Book club questions here.
The Blue Hour by Paula Hawkins was a disappointment for me. I will say, the setting is great—a remote Scottish island where the mainland is only accessible at high tide. But the story got bogged down with so much backstory, a focus on the wrong character, and plenty of other strange story choices. Full review here. Book club questions here.
All I Want is You by Falon Ballard is an entertaining and charming holiday-themed rom-com about second chances. You have festive holiday vibes, a well-done romance, and a look at the career of professional authors. Full review here. Book club questions here.
The Most Wonderful Crime of the Year by Ally Carter is such an original and fun tale set during the holidays. It combines the best aspects of a locked-room mystery, with the delightful charm of a romance. I really enjoyed this one and would love to see a sequel. Full review here. Book club questions here.
Julebord: The Holiday Party by David Øybo is an atmospheric and engaging literary suspense story that starts with a murder mystery, but emerges into a vivid character study. It’s quite the memorable novel. This one features a unique storytelling style, which brings a fresh and exciting approach. Full review here. Book club questions here.
What is your favorite book you’ve read recently?
Popular Holiday Book Club Pick
Every year, my book club questions for Kristin Hannah’s Comfort & Joy always experiences a high amount of traffic and interest. I really enjoyed this one. While she’s now known for her epic historical fiction stories, this one is a contemporary one with a big dash of magical realism.
It’s heartfelt and moving, plus I loved that it was set during the holiday season. Highly recommend if you haven’t read it yet!
Q&A with RaeAnne Thayne, Author of The December Market
RaeAnne Thayne is the author of The December Market, which is available now.
#1 Publishers Weekly, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author RaeAnne Thayne finds inspiration in the beautiful northern Utah mountains where she lives with her family. Her books have won numerous honors, including seven RITA Award nominations from Romance Writers of America and a Career Achievement Award from RT Book Reviews magazine.
Get to know RaeAnne as she talks favorite novels, story inspirations, a preview of The December Market and more. Click here for full Q&A.
Next Reads
These two novels are some of my most-anticipated reads for 2025 (and will be included in my 2025 book club list that I’ll post soon).
Good Dirt is the latest novel by Charmaine Wilkerson, who also wrote the NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER Black Cake. The story follows the daughter of an affluent Black family who pieces together the connection between a childhood tragedy and a beloved heirloom.
The Note by Alafair Burke features a vacation in the Hamptons that goes terribly wrong for three friends with a complicated history.
I’ll let you all know what I think about both of these!
If you have any questions, comments, need book recommendations or book club questions, feel free to reach out to me at anytime.
Happy reading!